What effect does CPR have when performed during early defibrillation?

Performing CPR during early defibrillation significantly improves overall survival rates because it helps maintain circulation to vital organs, particularly the brain and heart, until defibrillation can occur. In a cardiac arrest situation, immediate chest compressions are crucial because they can keep blood flowing, which can help preserve brain function and increase the likelihood of successful resuscitation. The timely combination of high-quality CPR with defibrillation increases the chances of restoring a normal heart rhythm and boosts survival outcomes in such emergencies. This is why the choice that states it improves overall survival rates is correct, as studies have shown that prompt CPR coupled with defibrillation leads to better rates of return to spontaneous circulation and survival to hospital discharge.